LED Christmas lights are electrical devices and are not waterproof. It’s unsafe to submerge LED Christmas lights in water, even if a brand claims that their Christmas lights are submersible. However, higher quality LED Christmas lights sets are water-resistant and can withstand exposure to snow, ice, and rain, making them good for outdoor use.

As devices that use and depend on electricity, LED Christmas light are not designed to be completely wet. No set of LED Christmas lights are waterproof—despite any claims made by a brand that their light sets are waterproof. Electrical products are dangerous to operate in water, so avoid submerging any LED Christmas lights in water.

Some LED string lights, especially high quality pro-grade sets, are water-resistant and can endure wet weather such as snow and rain. LED Christmas lights are made in different classes of weather durability, denoted by Ingress Protection (IP) ratings. Lights below an IP44 rating do not have water-resistance and should not be used outdoors. The higher the IP rating, the more protected and resilient the lights are, particularly in wet weather conditions. If the area you live in regularly sees snow, sleet, or rain, IP65 rated lights are ideal for your Christmas lights installs. Always check the product specifications for water resistance and IP ratings.

To maintain the life and longevity of your LED Christmas lights, avoid installing them in areas that are prone to high water exposure, such as directly on the ground, near or under downspouts, or inside water features such as fountains, pools, or ponds. Keep electrical connections and leads away from water or wet areas.

Weatherproofing your Christmas lighting installs is a great way to ensure operation through any weather. Christmas lights with an IP rating of at least IP44 are weatherproofed in and of themselves, with IP65 lights being the best protected from moisture. However, the electrical connections are the real points of vulnerability. You have a few different options for protecting electrical connections from moisture: pro-grade moisture blocking gaskets that seal between the female outlet and the male plug, electrical cover containers, or electrical tape. Each has its pros and cons. Complete your weatherproofing by sealing off any open outlets with male termination plugs.

In the event of prolonged rain during the season, it can be a good idea to protect your lights by covering them with tarp. Avoid the possibility of tripping the GFCI by turning off your lights and unplugging connections as necessary.

Put Christmas decorating in a new light: try pro-grade LED Christmas lights in your next display. 